Innovation Centres

UK Steel Enterprise Ltd (UKSE) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Corus tasked with the responsibility of helping the economic regeneration of communities affected by the decline of the steel industry. Historically linked to steel manufacturing, UKSE works across the UK, assisting with jobs and wealth creation by supporting small and medium enterprises with both finance and premises.

P+HS first worked with UK Steel Enterprises in 2001 following an invitation only design competition. Since then, we have undertaken six Projects for UKSE; the first at Kirkleatham in North East England and subsequently designing similar facilities at Hartlepool also in the North East and Ebbw Vale in North Wales. The centres have proved so popular with start up businesses, that P+HS has gone on to design expanded facilities at all three sites to satisfy demand.

The brief for the three projects required the preparation of designs incorporating outstanding architectural qualities within a relatively limited budget. Following P+HS design development to RIBA Stage D, and the submission of planning applications, tenders were invited from D&B Contractors with P+HS novated to the successful tenderers.

The innovation centres offer fully managed workspaces from 20sqm up to 400sqm with flexibility to allow expansion or contraction in line with business growth. A mix of office and workshop accommodation is provided with shared central reception and visitor waiting areas with support services such as photocopying and printing. Businesses also have access to meeting and conference rooms, communal lounge area, plus gym and showers.

Steel has been a natural choice of material for these projects, reflecting the links to Corus and the steel industry. The developments use a structural steel frame and lightweight steel secondary structures, also produced by Corus.
The Kirkleatham Innovation Centre won a Design Award from Redcar and Cleveland in 2002